Construction of the Isle of Wight Steam Railway's new Volunteer Accommodation Facility started at Havenstreet Station in November. It has long been recognised that accommodation for the Railway's volunteer staff needed to be improved. Whilst some people seemed content with the existing sleeping van, a converted SR PMV, others found the basic facilities provided off-putting. The new building is being constructed as an extension to the Gas House, home to the railway shop, museuem and staff mess room, on the site of the previous staff toilets/showers Portakabin. The two-storey building will, in addition to sleeping accommodation for up to nine people, provide showers, toilets and a clothes washing/drying room. Also included is a public toilet area with access for wheelchair users, replacing the previous facility located on the same site.

Looking from the loco yard towards the new building.

The poor weather in December, ranging from incessant rain to freezing conditions has made life difficult for our builders. It was hoped that the roof joists would be erected in early 2008 and the roof connection made to the Gas House. Unfortunately, the project is now running a month behind schedule, the roofs will now be joined sometime in February. There have also been a number of technical issues which have had to be resolved, such as the installation of appropriate lintels at first floor level. Building Regulations have also added to the cost and construction time, as the insulation between rooms is required to be of hotel standard. Consultation over the facilities to be provided in the re-vamped Gas House Mess Room is still ongoing.

A view from the rear of the Gas House looking towards the station platform. The door at the end of the building will give access to the staff living areas, the door visible on the left side wall is for the staff toilet.

This project is seen as a major step forward tor the Isle of Wight Steam Railway and a significant investment in it's volunteer staff. The Railway is confident that the new accommodation building and greatly improved mess facilities will enable and encourage more volunteers to stay and give their valuable time to the Railway.

If you would like to know more about how you could join the team that maintains and operates the Isle of Wight Steam Railway visit the Volunteer Information page.

If you would like to support the aims and objectives of the Isle of Wight Steam Railway it is possible to become a member of the Isle of Wight Railway Company, the railway's managing body. Details on the Membership page.